My kids all started working at ages 11-12. Maybe 2 hrs / week to start. More formally at 13-14. Always age appropriate work and never more than 6-8 hrs / week during the school year. Nothing crazy. Never so much that they can't enjoy being kids, having friends, etc. But, it gave a healthy understanding of money, of work ethic, of education. Most important: It was always their choice to work. I never forced them. But, being able to buy a vehicle at ~16 with their own money was such a source of personal pride. Saving money and delayed gratification - very 'European' skill sets to have. :) And, thank god for family businesses. Between myself and my siblings, we have 3 family businesses where we can make sure our kids have healthy / safe environments to get a bit of maturity. I see why this legislation is considered a bad thing by the commies. Typical "think of the children" type fear mongering. But - simply stated - the labor laws prevent me from offering a job to any random kid to gain the same experience. So, my kids and my sibling's kids (because of connections) have an advantage in life.